Wellington Phoenix have signed ex-Caltex Socceroos and Western Sydney Wanderers gloveman Ante Covic on a short-term injury replacement deal.
Phoenix confirmed the signing on Friday, with the 43-year-old set to be drafted straight into the squad for Saturday’s clash with Sydney FC.
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Covic joins Phoenix after the club's first-choice keeper, Filip Kurto, suffered a serious concussion in the draw against Perth Glory last weekend.
The Polish gloveman has not recovered in time to travel to Sydney for the clash with the Sky Blues, forcing Wellington to draft in Covic.
“He [Kurto] is recovering well and is looking to be out for only a week as he looks to return to 100% fitness,” the Phoenix said in a statement.
“We take head injuries extremely seriously and player’s welfare is our priority.
“We expect Filip to make a speedy recovery and considering we are in Sydney, experienced goalkeeper Ante Covic will come in as short-term cover.”
While the addition of the experienced Covic is a boost for Mark Rudan’s side, it is believed youngster Oli Sail will start against Sydney at Jubilee Stadium.
Covic, who also played for Newcastle Jets, Melbourne Victory and Perth Glory, last played in the Hyundai A-League in 2016.
He spent last season playing with NSW NPL club Rockdale City Suns.
